Volleyball: MO’s Cardoza named co-EYL MVP

Mission Oak's Aubrey Cardoza (9) celebrates a point with teammates against Bakersfield Christian during November’s Central Section Division III championship volleyball game in Lemoore. Cardoza was named by East Yosemite League coaches as the 2016 co-most valuable player of the year.(Photo11: Gary Kazanjian)

For the past two seasons, Mission Oak’s Aubrey Cardoza has been at the forefront of the Hawks’ girls volleyball team.

Cardoza, for the second straight season, was named by East Yosemite League coaches as the 2016 co-most valuable player, along with Monache’s Bryn Short.

Cardoza helped the Hawks capture their second consecutive EYL championship with a 9-1 record. The Hawks shared this year’s title with the Monache Marauders.

“She’s really going to be missed within the program,” Hawks head coach Casey Norman said. “She was my go-to girl all the time. Her teammates looked up to her since she was a three-year captain. They came to her for advice. She’s just a workhorse. She’ll give you 110 percent and she’ll even ask what she can do to get better. She’s every coaches’ dream player.”

The senior Cardoza was a four-year varsity starter. She spent three of those seasons as a team captain.

Cardoza is also a member of the Hawks’ basketball and softball teams.

“She’s truly a role model for all athletes,” Norman said of Cardoza. “If I wasn’t a coach and I had the privilege to be her teammate, I would absolutely love to play with her. She’s not only smart, but she’s got that leadership quality that every coach wishes that all their players or athletes possess.”

Norman isn’t just talking up her own player, either.

Usually after every game, whether its home or away, Cardoza can be seen picking up trash in the stands or on the floor.

It’s something Cardoza has been doing ever since she became a Hawk.

“That’s one thing shes always done, regardless,” Cardoza said. “She wants to contribute to the community. ... She’s just a well-rounded athlete and person. I wish I can clone that kid. She’s got such a bright future. It’s gonna be real hard to fill her shoes when she graduates this year.”